Lay My Guns Down Poem by Jon M. Nelson

As I gaze out upon the desert sky,
I sit and ponder and wonder why.
I left my life and family back home,
For this place where I search and roam.

What must I do in this desolate space,
Where I don't fit in I'm out of place?
Everyday I fight just to stay alive,
I must dig down for my internal drive.

As I'm trying to bring them peace,
And hope that the fighting will cease.
All I'm trying to do is lend a hand,
But I don't think they'll understand.

I'm always reminded that I don't belong,
Yet still I have to always remain strong.
With bullets and bombs that are all around,
Screaming is a deafening and chilling sound.

War is a hell no one should have to witness,
No one comes back without being a mess.
As I lay my guns down and return home again,
I'll always remember just where I have been.